Matthew 27:56
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Matthew 27:56
56 Among which was Mary Magdalene, and Mary the mother of James and Joses, and the mother of Zebedee's children.
Chapter Context
Matthew 27 is a biographical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of redemption, love, wisdom. Written during the late first century CE (c. 80-90 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Written when Christianity was separating from Judaism following Jerusalem's destruction.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-66: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it addresses timeless questions about faith, suffering, and divine purpose. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Matthew and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Matthew 27:56
56 Among which was Mary Magdalene, and Mary the mother of James and Joses, and the mother of Zebedee's children.
Analysis
Mary Magdalene—from Magdala, delivered from seven demons (Luke 8:2), she became Jesus' devoted follower and would be the first resurrection witness (John 20:11-18). Mary the mother of James and Joses—likely the wife of Clopas (John 19:25), possibly Jesus' aunt, making James and Joses his cousins. The mother of Zebedee's children—Salome (Mark 15:40), mother of James and John, who had requested thrones for her sons (Matthew 20:20-21).
This threefold naming emphasizes eyewitness testimony—ancient legal documents required multiple witnesses (Deuteronomy 19:15). These women's presence at cross, burial, and resurrection makes them foundational witnesses to the gospel events. Notably, women's testimony was generally inadmissible in Jewish courts, yet God chose them as primary witnesses, subverting human authority structures.
Historical Context
Matthew carefully identifies these women by their relationships to men (standard practice in patriarchal society) yet elevates their role as witnesses. That the Gospel writers included women as primary sources—despite their testimony being legally invalid—argues for historical authenticity. No one fabricating a story would base it on 'unreliable' witnesses.
Reflection
- Why would God choose women as primary witnesses to the resurrection in a culture that dismissed their testimony?
- How does Mary Magdalene's transformation from demon-possessed to faithful disciple illustrate the gospel's power?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Matthew 13:55, 27:61, 28:1, Mark 16:9, Luke 24:10, John 19:25